Online Class: Journalism 101

This online course offers the student an introduction to the profession of journalism as a whole.

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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 15
    Lessons
  • 31
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 1,287
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 14
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.4
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Unlock the World of Journalism: A Comprehensive Online Course

Embark on an immersive journey into the pulsating heart of journalism with this comprehensive online course. This curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide learners with a panoramic view of journalism, charting its evolution from ancient times to the dynamic digital age.

The course unfolds with an insightful glance into the roots of journalism, tracing the very first instances of news dissemination to the burgeoning newspaper industry, especially its significance during pivotal moments in U.S history post the Revolutionary War. This historic backdrop not only contextualizes the importance of journalism but also underscores its ever-evolving nature.

Essential skills are at the forefront of this course. Beyond mere theory, students are equipped with pragmatic newsgathering techniques, honing their proficiency in crafting compelling narratives for both print and other media formats. Dive deep into the quintessential tools of the trade, from mastering the art of the inverted pyramid to sharpening one's notetaking prowess.

Recognizing the importance of impeccable language in this profession, students can revisit the fundamentals of grammar and punctuation. More than just about constructing sentences, journalism is about responsibility. Hence, dedicated modules delve into the ethical considerations and legal ramifications that every budding journalist must be cognizant of.

Discover the nuances of discerning newsworthiness, guiding you on how to sift through the mundane to unearth stories that resonate. The course culminates in a deep dive into the world of investigative journalism, a realm where tenacity meets depth. Learn how to select subjects that warrant a deeper probe and how to navigate the intricacies of such comprehensive reports.

In an era where information is omnipresent, the role of a journalist transcends mere reporting. This course reiterates the solemn duty journalists owe to their profession and the broader society. From spotlighting injustices to celebrating triumphs, journalists shape narratives and perceptions.

Engage, inform, and inspire. This course doesn't just train you to become a journalist—it empowers you to become a storyteller, a beacon of truth in a world inundated with stories waiting to be told. Join us and redefine your understanding of journalism.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.77 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(958 votes)

Lesson 1: A Brief History of Journalism

35 Points
Journalism is the gathering, organizing, and distribution of news -- to include feature stories and commentary -- through the wide variety of print and non-print media outlets. Additional lesson topics: Associated Press Guide to News Writing: The Resource for Professional Journalists; Journalistic Writing: Building the Skills, Honing the Craft
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 1

Lesson 2: Introduction to Journalism

30 Points
Journalism is the act of writing about news-related subjects for all mediums -- print and non-print. Additional lesson topics: Articles on the future of journalism; What is the future of journalism?
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Complete: Why is Journalistic Writing Different - Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 2

Lesson 3: Journalism and Ethics

30 Points
Ethics is the application of moral principles that guide decision-making in our personal and professional lives. Ethics refers to conduct or behavior within societal expectations. Additional lesson topics: Center for Journalism Ethics; Improving Public Dialogue: Media and Citizen Responsibilities
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: My Ethical Stance in Journalism - Lesson 3 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 3

Lesson 4: Journalism and the Law

30 Points
The legal rules, as they apply to journalists and media, are a complex and fluid series of decisions that define the boundaries of acceptable behavior. Additional lesson topics: 7 laws journalists now need to know
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Complete: Journalism and the Law - Lesson 4 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 4

Lesson 5: What Is News? What Is Not?

60 Points
If you are going to be a journalist, you are going to have to be able to determine what qualifies as newsworthy -- and what doesn't. Additional lesson topics: Journalism 101: What Makes a Story Newsworthy?; THE Several THINGS THAT JOURNALISTS CONSIDER NEWSWORTHY
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Complete: A Newsworth Story - Lesson 5 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 5

Lesson 6: Ferreting Out Newsworthy Stories in the Real World

60 Points
In this lesson, we will consider this at greater length, offering a variety of resources for creating your own database of story ideas. Additional lesson topics: What Are the Best Ways of Finding Stories For Freelance Journalism?
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: A Personal Story - Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 6

Lesson 7: Research Skills and Fact Checking

24 Points
The purpose of research is not simply to find facts and statistics, but to uncover reliable data. Additional lesson topics: Getting it Right: Fact-Checking in the Digital Age; Research tip sheets: Lessons on online search techniques, reading studies, understanding data and methods
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 7

Lesson 8: Basic Skills of Reporting - Listening and Observing

64 Points
For those who wish to enter the profession, the art of active observation and keen listening are also essential. Let us consider each of these separately.
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 8
  • Assessment: MidTerm

Lesson 9: Basic Skills of Reporting - Interviewing and Note Taking

30 Points
Advise the person what the purpose of the interview is so there are no surprises. That gives the interviewee time to prepare, and you, as well. Additional lesson topics: 13 SIMPLE JOURNALIST TECHNIQUES FOR EFFECTIVE INTERVIEWS; Tips for Taking Good Notes
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Complete: Preparing for Your First Interview - Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 9

Lesson 10: Grammar and Style Rules of News Writing

10 Points
Grammar is decided according to hard and fast rules, but style is more personal and puts your mark on the piece of work. Additional lesson topics: Grammar Exercises; English Grammar Reference and Exercises; Exercises at Grammar Bytes!; English Grammar Exercises
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Exam 10

Lesson 11: Structuring and Crafting the News Story - Part I

30 Points
Writing is a skill that you will take years to hone, but like all those before you, you are beginning at -- the beginning! Additional lesson topics: How to Write a News Story Lead
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 11

Lesson 12: Structuring and Crafting the News Story - Part II

45 Points
The formats we will examine are the inverted pyramid, the narrative, the hourglass and the chronological order pattern. Additional lesson topics: How to Structure News Stories
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Complete: Crafting a News Story - Lesson 12 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 12

Lesson 13: Expository Writing

60 Points
Expository writing is a type of writing that aims to inform, explain, and/or describe. Additional lesson topics: Examples and Strategies in Expository Writing; Tips on Writing an Expository Essay
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Complete: Expository Writing - Lesson 13 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 13

Lesson 14: Writing for Broadcast News and Online Resources

60 Points
Writing for broadcast news and online resources is somewhat different, and the journalist who is able to perform well in all environments is likely to get the job, and keep it, before those who have limited knowledge. Additional lesson topics: How to Write Broadcast News Copy
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Complete: Broadcast News Writing - Lesson 14 Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam 14

Lesson 15: Journalism of Import

45 Points
In this last lesson, we will cover a variety of topics, all of import to the journalist.
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Your Opinion Matters: Course Rating; Course Comments; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course)
  • Assessment: Exam 15
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
613
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe the history of journalism.
  • Define what journalism means.
  • Describe journalism and ethics.
  • Describe journalism and the law.
  • Determine what is news what is not news.
  • Describe methods for ferreting out newsworthy stories in the real world.
  • Determine research skills and fact checking.
  • Describe basic skills of reporting - listening and observing.
  • Describe basic skills of reporting - interviewing and note taking.
  • Describe grammar and style rules of news writing.
  • Demonstrate structuring and crafting the news story.
  • Demonstrate expository writing.
  • Describe writing for broadcast news and online resources.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Journalism 101
Course Number: 9770565
Lessons Rating: 4.77 / 5 Stars (958 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Available across all 50 U.S. states, this course includes key regions such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also open in major English-speaking countries, including Australia, Canada, the UK, and Ireland.
Last Updated: January 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.4 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I thought it was very helpful and thorough. I got a lot of useful information and was definitely challenged as well as informed by the curriculum." -- David E.
  • "I really enjoyed taking this course. It has helped me tremendously in what I'm looking to do." -- Mildred S.
  • "I appreciated the different types of writing." -- Anna J.
  • "Thank you. The full course was very useful." -- Stephanie W.
  • "The instructor was terrific, and gave praise and criticism as warranted." -- Peggy B.

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